Japan to introduce 'Sayonara Tax' from 2019

Travelers leaving Japan will have to pay a departure tax of one thousand yen, or around nine U.S. dollars starting next year.

According to Kyodo News Agency, the government aims to use the tax to promote tourism … by building additional infrastructure and improving service.

Under the bill, passed by Japan's parliament on Wednesday, everyone leaving the country by plane or ship will have to pay the tax… except children under age of two and passengers leaving the country within 24 hours of arrival.

Japan National Tourism Organization said the move will help Japan prepare for upcoming international events such as the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics… as it seeks to attract 40 million visitors a year by 2020.